We are committed to continuously improving access to our goods and services by individuals with disabilities. This website is currently being updated to enhance the usability and experience for persons with disabilities. If you are unable to use any aspect of this website because of a disability, please call 508.791.6140 and we will provide you with prompt personalized assistance.

Feb 28th, 2017

Hormones and oral health: The difference between men and women you didn’t know.

When it comes to oral health, the risks faced by men and women are not the same. Hormonal fluctuations cause women to be uniquely susceptible to gum disease in at least four stages of life. Even when all else remains unchanged, you or a woman you know may be confused by heightened vulnerability to certain conditions.

Red, swollen gums during puberty, menses, or pregnancy can be one result of hormone fluctuations. As the levels of estrogen and progesterone rise, blood flow to the gums increases and changes the way gums react to plaque. Women may experience bleeding during brushing and flossing, heightened sensitivity, or swelling of the gum tissue. Menstrual gingivitis can develop near the start of your period but also ends just as quickly while pregnancy gingivitis is a real cause of concern for many women any time during their term. Dry mouth can also develop during pregnancy as the composition and volume of saliva produced changes.

During menopause taste perception and burning sensations in the mouth may occur, which can lead to a host of other problems – eating disorders and self-induced vomiting being a few. Inform the women in your life of their increased susceptibility to certain oral conditions. For ladies, there is a lot on your mind during hormonal transitions, but don’t forget about your oral health!

Search

Here at Paxton Dental Care we work diligently to protect our patients' privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has identified as electronically protected healthcare information or ePHI. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the "I agree" box, and electronically making an appointment request, you acknowledge that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Paxton Dental Care will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may illegally intercept this communication. By accepting these terms and conditions and sending this request via our Internet portal, you accept the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. If you do not accept the terms and conditions, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.